Rosie Lee Ford, daughter of Charles Drew and Ruby Jean Anderson Ford, was born on
June 13, 1969, in Shreveport, Louisiana. She was preceded in death by her parents,
Charles and Ruby Ford.
In 1970, after her mother’s passing, Rosie’s father moved the family to California to be
near relatives. They first lived in Harbor City, and in 1972, settled in San Diego, where
Rosie grew up surrounded by family. She attended Kennedy Elementary and graduated
from Gompers High School. From an early age, Rosie developed a love for reading and
often finished several books a week. In high school, she discovered her passion for
music and singing, joining the school band and choir.
Rosie accepted Christ early in life while attending Calvary Baptist Church, where she
sang in the children’s and youth choirs.
She welcomed her first son, Matthew Ford, in January 1987, and her second son,
Marcus Ford, in April 1991.
In 1992, Rosie moved to Los Angeles County, where she trained and worked in
management for several major fast-food chains before returning to her first career love,
driving buses. She joined First Transit Bus Company in Pasadena, where her warmth
and dedication shone through. Her strong leadership and care for coworkers led to her
election as Union Steward for the International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 848.
In 2013, Rosie suffered a stroke that affected her left side, yet her faith and gratitude
never wavered. Through every challenge, she continued to thank God for His blessings.
Rosie was devoted to her family and loved connecting with others. She enjoyed talking
with loved ones, cooking, and bringing people together. Her kitchen was often the
center of laughter, love, and good food—a reflection of her generous spirit.
Rosie passed away on October 13, 2025. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her. Rosie’s strength, faith, and thankfulness inspired everyone around her.
Rosie leaves to cherish her memory her sons; Matthew Ford of Pasadena and Marcus
(Selisha) Ford of Los Angeles, five grandchildren; Markay, William, Makayla, Matthew
Jr., and Zyaire, sister Annie (Chauncey) Ewings of San Diego, brother Charles Ford Jr.
of Palmdale, stepmother Nettie Ford of Texas, stepbrother Tommy (Cassandra) Taylor, stepsister Rolnetta Taylor, ex-husband, Rodolfo Mills, as well as a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
